Calling all camping buffs! Nature lovers, come one, come all!
What better way to experience the natural beauty of West Michigan’s lakeshore than to surround yourself with it at one of the many campgrounds found here? Whether you’ve got a trailer, a tent, or even just a hammock, there are all sorts of places throughout the area perfect for setting up camp.
So, if you enjoy sitting around a campfire, going on day hikes, relaxing under the stars, and indulging in s’mores, check out this list of some of the best spots for West Michigan camping.
Make Camping Memories in Muskegon
Muskegon State Park
With sites situated along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and one mile of Muskegon Lake shoreline, camping is just one of the many things to do at Muskegon State Park!
Besides fishing, boating, and beaching it, you can hit the trails, stroll along the channel, and even luge, zipline, and try your hand at archery all at the sports complex located right on the premises. Yes, technically it’s called the Winter Sports Complex, but don’t let its name fool you. There is still plenty of fun to be had long after the snow is gone! In the summer, the luge sleds are replaced with sporting wheels, and the skating trails are transformed into a Trail Quest adventure. A great spot to camp is just the starter!
PJ Hoffmaster
297 campsites welcome visitors to stay for a while and enjoy this 1,200-acre park, complete with 3 miles of spectacular Lake Michigan shoreline, towering dunes to explore, 10 miles of scenic hiking trails, and an onsite Visitor Center with panoramic views and loads of programs and activities for all ages. Camping at Hoffmaster never disappoints!
Grab Your Camping Gear and Go to Grand Haven
Grand Haven State Park
Located smack dab on the shore of Lake Michigan and sprawling along the channel, Grand Haven State Park is a popular place, to say the least! Here, you can camp steps from the beach with a backdrop of dunes and a view that can’t be beat. Watch the boats go by and the sun go down. Check out the lighthouse as you walk the pier, then turn around and walk right into town! Shops and restaurants are right nearby, so if you forgot your sweatshirt or you get tired of camp food, Grand Haven’s got your back!
Eastpointe RV Resort
On the east side of town, nestled along the Grand River, you’ll find Eastpointe RV resort. Reserve a site here, and you won’t want to leave! Along with all the typical camping amenities, this camp and RV resort features a pool and hot tub, a playground, a kayak launch, a fitness center, pickleball courts, and a paved walkway to jog, bike, or fish along the river. There are even boat slips available for guests who wish to fit some boating in during their stay, whether it’s to troll along the river or head out to the big lake.
Pack your Hammock and Head to Holland
Holland State Park & Beach Campground
Inside Holland State Park, there’s not one, but two campgrounds! You can pick either the shoreline of Lake Michigan, or the shoreline of Lake Macatawa to set up camp and enjoy the sugary sand beaches of either location. Pedal down the paved bike path that runs through the 142-acre park, check out the “Big Red” lighthouse, rent a paddleboard, go fishing, or simply sit back and relax while you take in the beautiful sunset views.
It’s tough to beat camping right on the beach, and hey…tent stakes go in easily when you put them in sand! Of course, if you prefer walls that are a bit more sturdy, there are cabins you can rent in the park as well.
Roll Out Your Sleeping Bag in South Haven
Covert/South Haven KOA
Talk about the perfect base camp! The Covert/South Haven KOA is conveniently located near South Haven, St. Joseph, Saugatuck, and Holland so you get your pick of great beaches, shops, trails, restaurants, and more — that is, if you ever want to leave the campground! Whether you’re in a tent, RV, or you prefer to rent a cabin, this place not only offers a variety of accommodations but also a long list of amenities as well. From a pool and splash pad to trampoline basketball, an onsite cafe, and endless fun events, you name it, they’ve got it. Just be sure to pack your sense of adventure!
Van Buren State Park
Also located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Van Buren State Park visitors can enjoy swimming and soaking up the sun on a one-mile stretch of beautiful beach complete with a dog-friendly section, then check out some super high dune formations, and hike or bike on tons of trails.
The 4-mile paved Van Buren State Park Spur Trail can be taken all the way into South Haven where the Kal-Haven Trail State Park connects and continues for another 33.5 miles (for those not yet tired of pedaling or walking!).
Before you even get to South Haven, you can access the scenic Van Buren Trail State Park, a gravel trail that takes you 12 miles south to the city of Hartford. When we say there are lots of trails, we mean it!
Camping (and Living!) Along the West Michigan Coast
As you travel from Muskegon down Lake Michigan’s coast, be sure to snag a site at one of the camping fan favorites above, and make the most of your camping experience by checking online for campground guides, as well as packing tips for your West Michigan camping trip.
Keep in mind that you may need to make reservations since campgrounds can fill up quickly around here. With so much natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities, camping enthusiasts love visiting the West Michigan lakeshore, but the fun doesn’t have to stop when you pack up your camper!
If you’re looking to put down roots instead of stakes and you’re considering setting up camp in West Michigan a little more permanently, reach out to BlueWest Properties. We have homes available along the lakeshore that take advantage of all the views and outdoor fun Michigan has to offer year-round. Give us a call at 616-843-0603 to learn more.
